Furlong less for Byrne Group Plate at Cheltenham
The Byrne Group Plate at Cheltenham is to be run over a furlong shorter this year with one fence less to be negotiated.
Last Updated: 28/02/14 5:36pm
The distance of the Grade Three handicap chase has been shortened from two miles five furlongs to two and a half miles.
"The Byrne Group Plate will now be at two-mile four, so this means that there will be one less fence to be jumped during the race," said Sophia Brudenell, communications manager Jockey Club Racecourses South West.
Brudenell explained the reason behind the alteration.
"This reduction in distance of one furlong was requested by the British Horseracing Authority last summer following consultation with trainers. This will lead to one less fence being jumped during the course of the race," she said.
"This start position was introduced in 2011 when the Jewson Novices' Handicap Chase was run for the first time over this distance."